Candice joined the LDS church with her family when she was 8 years old. In her early teens, she began to understand that her female gender identity didn’t fit her male physical body. The following years were hard for her, and after several suicide attempts, she realized she needed to change the course of her life. So she turned to the wilderness and adventure sports and was able to find a courage that she never thought she had. Then, knowing that it would risk her employment and family relationships, she began the transition to a female identity and let go of what she calls the expectation for a male identity. Eventually she did lose her job and ended up living on the street while trying to get an education. But through the help of a community that understood her worth, she got off the streets, earned several degrees, and is now working on her PhD. She also serves on three boards and is working to make a safe place for all of God’s children, especially those who don’t fit the norm.

by Matt Balls

(The views expressed in this interview do not necessarily reflect those of the producers of Far Between but are reflective of a part of what it means to be homosexual and Mormon today.)

Mark

I’m so glad that you found your way, and survived in doing so. Please believe when I say that I love you, cuz, and I am so proud to count you as family! Mark

tara

this is beautiful. such bravery. i’m so glad you are loving you and sharing your story. thank you!

Max5457

Thank you for sharing your story and for the crusade that took you where you stand today. The most important part is that you are alive and that God loves you as a child of Him.